Nigerian Army troops rescued 31 hostages, including one injured person, during an early morning operation on Sunday, 5 April 2026, in Ariko village, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The hostages had been abducted by attackers who stormed an ECWA Church during a religious gathering. Acting on credible intelligence, troops from Sub-Sector 5, Operation FASAN YAMMA, were deployed at approximately 0920 hours and, with assistance from local residents, launched a pursuit of the assailants. Five people were confirmed dead in the attack, and their bodies were recovered and returned to the community by the military.
Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Wase, General Officer Commanding 1 Division and Commander Sector 1 Operation FASAN YAMMA, is on site overseeing operations and directing enhanced security measures. Clearance and pursuit operations have been intensified across known flashpoints, with increased collaboration between troops, other security agencies and local stakeholders. The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, urging citizens to remain vigilant, avoid isolated worship centres, and report suspicious activities promptly.
